Queen Elizabeth I

Main

Born

September 7, 1533

Mother, Anne Boleyn, Killed

May 19, 1536

The execution of Anne Boleyn was indeed an important event in Elizabeth's life, although she was very little at the time. It effected her in a few ways, the most important being her view of romance. The way her father treated his wives must have had a big influence on her decision to remain a "virgin Queen". It also shaped her childhood because she had to grow up without a mother.

Raised Protestant by Katharine Parr

July 12, 1543 - May, 1548

Katharine Parr was a positive influence on Elizabeth's life. She was kind and encouraged her to get a good education, finding the best tutors to teach her. However, her years with Katharine created another split between her and Mary. Mary was not raised Protestant, and did not feel connected to Katharine Parr the way her step-siblings did. In years to come, with religion tying in so closely to politics, the fact that Elizabeth had been raised Protestant was huge.

Trial of Sir Robert Trywhitt

January 1549 - March 1549

This trial was a defining moment for Elizabeth. She demonstrated her wit and persistence. This was one of the first times people had seen her potential in regards to ruling a Kingdom. It also helped to build her innocent image.

Sent to the Tower

17 March 1554 - 19 May 1554

This was more of a personal event that changed the course of Elizabeth's life. She was put through sheer terror and believed that she would die. She was shaken up many months following the time in the tower. This definitely made a mark on Elizabeth's physiological well-being, and I am sure that she didn't forget how it felt to be in such a vulnerable position.

Woodstock

June 1554 - April 1555

Her visit to Woodstock was like rehabilitation to raise her spirits after being in the tower. It brought back the clever and, most importantly, alive, Elizabeth. She left behind, for the most part, her thoughts of death and fear of being murdered. The worst was behind her.

First Council Meeting: Appoints William Cecil

November 20 1558

William Cecil was a major influence in Elizabeth's personal and political life. He was a trusted advisor throughout her reign. Also, the first council meeting is an important event because it was when she truly began to rule England.

Extravagant Ride Through London

January 12 1559 - January 13 1559

Her ride through london dressed in a crimson gown was highly celebrated. She met many subjects who had come out to support her. It helped to define her reign as one of happiness and connectedness with the English people. Also, it gave her confidence as she saw how many followers she had.

Coronation

15 January 1559

Elizabeth's coronation ceremony was when she officially became Queen. This was a huge moment, especially since she was pretty far removed from the line of succession. This ceremony marked the beginning of Elizabeth's rule.

Northern Rebellion

1569

The Northern Rebellion was important to Elizabeth's political career. She had to deal with the scary possibility of a large rebellion and more fighting between Protestants and Catholics. Luckily, it was over soon enough and it did not spoil Elizabeth's reign. However, it was a demonstration of the times and some of the issues that Elizabeth was having to deal with.

Mary Beheaded

8 February 1587

This demonstrated Queen Elizabeth's character; she was willing to do what was necessary for her kingdom and her reputation as Queen. I would imagine that it would be difficult to put anyone to death--especially a family member. It shows that Queen Elizabeth was good at seeing what needed to be done and keeping her own emotions at bay.

Spanish Armada

20 May 1588

The Spanish Armada was "one of the most famous naval victories in History". It turned England into a recognized power in terms of military. The victory over Spain proved that England was a country on the rise. They could soon become a strong power in Europe.